Lunar Self-Care & Skincare: What is it & OMG Should We Try it?

The sun certainly has an effect on your skin – but does the moon? A new trend called “Lunar Skincare” is based on the (non-science backed) idea that the rhythms of nature, and the eight phases of the moon could affect your skin. Based on the popularity of astrology, it prescribes that the moon affects things like tides and animals, so why wouldn’t it also affect your biology?

What are the moon cycles? These include many that you likely are familiar with, like the New Moon, and Waxing Crescent, but also wacky-sounding cycles like “First Quarter” and “Waxing Gibbous”. According to this philosophy, each of these cycles are supposed to affect your skin and influence the type of products you should be using.

“Lunar self-care is when we harness the energy of the moon, the moon signs, and its phases, and we use that energy on Earth as human beings,” Lisa Stardust, astrologer and author of Saturn Return Survival Guide: Navigating This Cosmic Rite of Passage, told Harper’s Bazaar.

So how can you mix and match your skincare routine so that it’s more in tune with the moon?

New Moon:

During this cycle, you feel refreshed and vibrant, making this the perfect time to try out new skincare products and find the perfect match. This is also a great time to add new elements to your self-care routine – or create one completely from scratch. You might add a nail care routine to your Sunday evening, or try new serums for your face – and why not try Maqui for your skin? Just make sure you are selecting products that you’re sure don’t irritate your skin.

Waxing Crescent Moon

Our eyes see the waxing crescent phase like a thin crescent of light to the right of the moon. During this phase, we are still feeling energized from the New Moon of the last cycle, and so your skin will likely love it if you pick something that truly reinvigorates it, like a great toner to splash on your face, or a strong caffeine mask. You have to keep up! Things are moving fast!

First Quarter

The First Quarter Moon looks to us like a “half moon” meaning it’s high up above. The cycle is slowly starting to wind down and so your skin now needs some refreshing hydration. During this phase it’s important to select rich moisturizers and drink loads of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration. Things like Rosa Mosqueta is a great addition to your “Waxing Gibbous” skincare routine. Extracted from ripened fruit of a rosebush, Rosa Mosqueta is a rich source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids known for collagen boosting, moisturizing and fighting hyperpigmentation. 

Waxing Gibbous

In this stage, we are right between a half moon and full moon and things are now headed to the peak of the time for self-care and relaxation. During this phase, an excellent skincare detox will likely make you feel really good.

Full Moon

For the Pièce de résistance of the moon cycle skincare, you’ll want to arm yourself with serums and magic potions that help calm and soothe you – because as we all know, the full moon is a time of chaos. (Maybe even for ware-wolves!)

Waning Gibbous

This cycle falls between a half moon and full moon and things are coming full circle. This is a time for reflection, peace, and tying up loose ends. During this cycle, your skin will want to feel nourished and soothed. Try cucumber spritzes, all-natural, clean products, and healing balms. A nice leg and foot massage with creamy lotion could really take this period up a notch.

Third Quarter

 This quarter is also a half moon, but it is the opposite half as the first quarter moon. Things are coming back to normal. You’ll feel more balance and at equilibrium. This is a time for balance for your skin, and there is nothing better than using basic and neutral oils during this phase.

Waning Crescent

During this cycle, the waning crescent phase will be viewed as thin sliver of light on the left. Here, you simply rest. Let your skin breathe and feel completely rejuvenated to start the cycle over again. Think hydration, rest, cleansing, and lots of water.